3/1/2024
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Posted by Dr. Thomas Raskauskas, OB/GYN and Fidelis Care Senior Medical Director
Endometriosis is a disease in which cells normally seen lining the uterus (womb) grow outside the uterus. It can cause inflammation, scar tissue, and pain, especially during menstrual periods. Endometriosis may also cause reproductive health issues like infertility.
Who Can Have Endometriosis?
Anyone with an active uterus can be affected by endometriosis. About 10% of women, mostly in their 30s and 40s, are affected by endometriosis.
What Are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
Common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Pain during menstrual periods, sex, bowel movements, and/or urination
- Serious menstrual cramps
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Too much bleeding in between menstrual periods
- Scarring around the internal female reproductive organs, which can lead to infertility
- Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea
- Feeling tired
Be aware of the symptoms. If you have them, talk to your provider. Depending on how serious your symptoms are and your current health situation, your provider will help decide if treatment is needed. Treatment may include pain medications and/or hormone therapy.
How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?
Your provider or obstetrician–gynecologist (OB/GYN) may first do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. Your provider may also suggest a procedure, called a laparoscopy, to look inside your pelvis with a camera. Sometimes, a small amount of tissue is removed and tested in a lab.
If you have questions about endometriosis, talk to your provider. Read more about endometriosis here.
Sources
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/endometriosis#:~:text=Endometriosis%20affects%20an%20estimated%202,ages%20of%2025%20and%2040.&text=Symptoms%20of%20endometriosis%20may%20include,flow%20and%20pain%20during%20intercourse.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/endometriosis